• Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar met Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia Maka Botchorishvili on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.

• The two ministers discussed the active and growing dynamics of bilateral relations between Georgia and India, as well as ways to further enhance cooperation to fully leverage the existing potential.

• Regarding the development of cooperation in various sectors, both sides highlighted the importance of strengthening trade and economic ties, fostering closer business relations, enhancing collaboration in education, and deepening people-to-people and tourism exchanges. 

• The discussion also underscored the significance of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Georgia and India, which would be a major step toward boosting the trade and economic partnership between the two countries.

• Georgia’s appeal as a destination for Indian tourists and students was emphasized, given its cultural richness and strategic position. Collaboration in education was identified as a key area, with potential for student exchanges and academic partnerships.

• Georgia’s role as a logistical hub was highlighted, with discussions on enhancing connectivity to facilitate trade and economic cooperation.

• Botchorishvili underscored Georgia’s strategic location and economic potential, positioning it as a gateway for India to access European and Asian markets.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)